Chapters Witty chapter name to start off series
Author's Note
So, I am new to this whole writing thing and I decided to try my hand at this after some ideas sprouted in my head. Constructive criticism is recommended as I did my best to find any typos and punctuation errors. BUT! Keep in mind, I haven't actually written something in a while so bear with me on some of these. Also if you didn't notice, there will be a lot of cussing, not an overbearing amount but still a lot. Remember, to leave a like, comment or fave if you enjoy my little story, I will be updating every weekend.
Witty chapter name to start off series
*Beep, beep, beep, beep, beep*
“Ugh, shit” I roll over as my arm attempts to locate the source of my misery. After finally getting a hold of my phone I dismiss the alarm and check the date and time: 9:00am Saturday, August 21 2016. I groan before willing my body up and almost falling over because I’m a clumsy idiot. The dry feeling in my mouth motivates me to go to the restroom, out my door and a quick right leads me to the small oval office, I look at the mirror quickly taking in my appearance. Brown skin, unkempt dark brown hair, hazel eyes, some stubble forming a faint goatee with a 5 o’clock shadow, and a dashingly handsome broad face. I was somewhere between overweight yet a fit 215lbs at 5’7”, let’s just say my friends called me ape for a reason. After my shit, shower, shave ritual I dress myself with some blue Wrangler jeans, an olive green T-shirt and some black Jordan future lows, now I feel ready to make the day my bitch… or get my ass kicked by it because life is an asshole. I enter my hallway with my bedroom to my left and my office/man cave a few more feet to the right, at the end of the hall was a modest kitchen on the right and a small living room to my left.
Some thuds come from my ceiling that sound too much like running. “Fucking people don't got consideration for the other tenants”, I grumble out as I feel my happy mood begin to sour. Sighing as I pour myself some water and make my way to the living room, clicking the T.V. on I see the morning news.
“...ast night President Trump mistakenly insulted the Japanese representative Yuzuru Otonashi, who was stepping in due to the sudden illness of their current leader. The cause of the insult is still not clear, but even as Mr. Otonashi exclaimed that if President Trump apologized, all would be forgiven, Trump responded with “I don’t think I insulted you, I think you’re just not happy with how great I am at politics, in fact I’m so good at it that I am the best at politics, and that’s just why you’re insulted”. Mr. Otonashi was confused and upset about President Trumps response he insisted America had elected a “complete buffoon” and stated that his country will hear about this. Now on other news we come with the question of “How much mayonnaise is too much?”
I turn the T.V. off as my mind recovers from what I saw. “I swear, life is becoming more and more like a forum in the pits of 4Chan”, I lift my ass up and tread onto my pride and joy in life, my glorious Man Cave/ Office. The room isn't too big but inside is a nice desktop computer with croma gear from Razer, Logitech, and Roccat on the right wall; a PS4 with a wall mounted flat screen T.V. in front of me with shelves that contain all manner of things ranging from games, to my collection of MLP Vinyls; and to my left was a “Stack-On” steel gun safe that contained my babies, a Remington 12 gauge M870, a Glock 17 with enough ammo to last me a few trips to the range, a sling for my shotgun and a Blackhawk Tactical Serpa thigh holster. Not an impressive gun collection, but fuck it, and my response to people who ask why I have such weapons in an apartment is “Because I love America and the 2nd Amendment, now get your commie shit outta my face”. It’s also best to have it and not need it, then to need it and not have it. The landlord knows of my weapons and respects me as a fellow gun owner, people got a right to protect themselves and those around them.
Checking the chalk board I have in there for any reminders I may have left myself the day before, I notice that there is a list of things I need to get from the grocery store. Beer, lettuce, bread, meat, some milk, a few veggies and some snacks. Groaning at the tasks I need to get done before I can play anything I grab my keys from a hook on the right side of the door. Stepping out of my apartment I hear kids running around on the walkways upstairs.
“Damn kids! You should know better than to run on the walkways! Where are your parents?!”, the children's only response is to blow a raspberry my way before running off. Fucking kids, if I were their parents I’d teach them some manners, being from a Mexican family had it’s ups and downs but we damn well knew how to make our kids behave. I sigh as I find my vehicle, a 2013 navy blue Toyota Tacoma, the most versatile car of them all. A V6 engine that gets 16mpg in the city and 21 on the highway, 5 seats, and a nice truck bed for things I can't carry inside the truck, it was a gift from a family friend after I graduated high school.
Once I started the truck and made my way to the store I turned the radio up once I heard Hymn for the weekend by Coldplay come on the radio. While the song played I thought of a few things ranging from my family, to my friends. For some reason music always gets me thinking, I look around town as I drive by and notice things that would look bad from an outsider's perspective, things that make me think badly of humanity, such as homeless people, tons of traffic, pollution, and assholes on the road. But as I keep looking I see the homeless have new clothes and blankets, cars being courteous to one another, hybrid vehicles and workers planting trees, and friends and family greeting each other in front of restaurants and hang out spots. Sure humanity is kind of shitty sometimes, but we also can create true beauty and love one another if we try. Noticing that i'm arriving at the grocery store I turn the radio down as the song comes to an end. About a half an hour later and i’m out of the store with everything I need along with three 24 packs of beer, Stella, Blue moon, and a Strongbow variety pack, I unload the cart onto my truck bed and proceed to head back to my apartment. I arrive at my destination without much trouble, and I notice a familiar looking girl waving at me as I park and exit the vehicle, Ashleigh Clough.
“Hey Ash”, I greet the short dirty blonde woman who I believe has taken an interest with me. I admire her form, a nice hourglass form with a bit more mass on that ass, I always was a trunk kind of guy.
“Sup Erik, just get back from the store?”, she says while walking toward me.
“Yup, just got some beer, food and snacks. What brings you around these parts? Seeing as you don't live anywhere near here.”, She actually lives a good 15 minute drive from here, but seeing her at the apartment complex isn't usually a common occurrence.
“Well, I was actually looking for you”, the attractive woman says with a slight blush.
A number of things pop into my mind ranging from our little flirtations to her actually needing me for something. “Okay cool! Mind talking to me and helping out with some groceries? I’ll throw in some free beer”, she nods her head and helps with the light things while I take the heavy load, let it be known that even if I have temper a I could be a bit of a gentleman when I want to be.
“I was looking to see if your offer about tomorrow was still open, if it isn't I completely understand but I figured… you know… it wouldn't hurt to go out on that date”, her blush intensified as one appeared on my face.
“OH! Uh, sure! I mean yeah I don't mind, we could go check out that new Italian place that opened up on 4th street”, I tried to keep the nervousness out of my voice considering she was most likely just as anxious if not more, sometimes being a rock pays off.
“Okay, cool. Um what would I need to wear?” asks my future date just as we get to my apartment door.
While fishing for my keys I respond with, “Oh it doesn’t seem like a super fancy place, so when in doubt just go casual I guess” I finish off with a shrug. Opening my door to the humble abode I call my home I tell her she can just leave the groceries on my kitchen counters. After everything is put down I lock my door and open the pack of Blue Moon popping the caps off with a wall mounted bottle opener. As I hand her the alcoholic drink she thanks me before making her way to my living room and taking a spot on my couch, and places the drink on a small glass nightstand next to the sofa.
“So since you didn't respond to what I said i'm guessing you're already planning a cute outfit to wear tonight?”, I ask with a wiggle on my eyebrows and a smirk.
“Yeah, I gotta look good if i'm going to be seen in public with you, I do have a reputation to maintain”, the level of sarcasm was well over an exaggerated amount that would be to easy to reference.
“Oooh, this one's got some fight in her. Ya wanna tussle sweet cheeks?”, I say in my best old Chicago gangster accent.
“Fight me bro! I can take you!”, the woman now turned brodude exclaims as she taps her chest in a taunting manner.
Smiling evilly at her I pounce at my new prey aiming for her weak point that will surely secure me victory, her tummy. I unleash a torrent of tickles that makes her start laughing in pure comic agony, she tells me to stop or else but I don't let that deter me from my onslaught. Then a fist made its way to my stomach slightly knocking the wind out of me. It wasn’t too hard of a hit but I exaggerate the effects and fall on the floor attempting to look like i’m gravely wounded.
“Huuuuugh! I've been hit! MEDIC!!”, dramatically holding my hand in the air as I take in my last breaths. Ash stands atop me with a maniacal laugh that would impress any evil villain.
“Fear my wrath foolish mortal! Now there is nothing stopping me from raiding your stash of beer and chips!”
“Gasp! You monster, you'll never get away with this!”
“That's the thing though, I already have…”
…
…
“Way to be cliche ash”
“Your one to talk Mr. Broadway actor”, at her snarky comeback I stand back up and take a bow.
“Thank you, thank you, you’re too kind”, at that we bust out laughing for a couple of minutes then going into a contempt silence with an atmosphere full of a certain mutual feeling. But just as she starts to say something to break said silence, a light rumble makes its way into the room.
“Damn kids are at it again”, and just as I was about to head outside to yell at what I was sure was the cause of such a ruckus Ash grabs my hand and looks at me with a face that resembled the feeling I was getting in my gut.
“Erik I don't think those kids caused that”, with those words our world became chaotic mess of shaking that could only mean one thing.
“SHIT, EARTHQUAKE! FIND COVER!”
Making my way to the kitchen table with Ash still in tow I drag us down there and tell her to hold on to the table legs.
“Erik i’m scared!”
“Don't be, just keep holding onto my hand and close your eyes! Everything's gonna be fine, I won't let anything happen to you!”
Just as I finish comforting the one i’m committed to protect, the world feels like it's tearing itself apart. Right when I thought our end was surely to come, all the shaking ceased and an eerie silence filled the room only broken by the sound of our heavy breathing.
“I think the worst of it passed, come on we need to get out of the building in case it decides to collapse”, I don’t wait for Ash to respond as I make my way to the door, I mentally prepare myself for what destruction may await us while silently hoping that even the annoying kids were spared from the worst. I may have an attitude toward the little fuckers but they didn't deserve something falling on them or the walkway collapsing under them. Opening the front door we're greeted with something neither of us would have expected in a thousand years, causing me and Ashleigh to stare wordlessly.
An open field filled with lush grass that probably reached my ankles. As a breeze makes its way through the terrain, it causes the grass to ripple like a green ocean. The tranquil sound of our new environment is broken by the first words to come out of our mouths.
“Well shit”
“Well shit”
Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter. Author's Note
Yes, yes, I know. But god damn, this week has just been, complete bull crap. Sometimes I wish I could quite my day job and uninstall Life. Anyways I do apologize for the lateness, I did try to get this out on time but shit happens, ya know? Okay, now with the usual, I did try my best to catch any punctuation/grammatical errors but I'm not perfect, so if y'all would be so kind as to list any errors you catch and call me out on my bullshit, that would be much appreciated. Now the little "gift" will be coming out on a blog. with that ENJOY!
Prepers
Normally when you pass out close to night, and half exhausted, you stay asleep until your internal clock decides to wake you up and you go about your morning… normally. This however is far from normal, I wake up to the sounds of someone moving around my apartment, now I don't usually have guests over to sleep, unless it's one of my gaming buddies who happens to be in town. But I know neither of my friends have been over recently so I knock that from my list of suspicions, then I notice that i'm laying on what feels like my carpet, with a pillow under my head. Okay, I don't remember falling asleep on my carpet… memories rush into my head and I shoot up while my mind reboots and loads its last pending task, screaming in a mixture of panic and embarrassing excitement.
“AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!”, this also caused someone else who sounded like ash to scream as well.
“AAAAAAAHHHH!”
“AAAAAAAAHHHH!”, then as though this couldn't get any crazier a third party joins in on the screaming.
“AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!”
“AAAAAHHHHHH!!”
“AAAAAAAHHHHHH!”
*Smack!* “Ouch! What the fuck Ash?!”, Ash slaps me out of my panic and that's when I notice the source of our current dilemma was awake and staring at us with surprised eyes. Not sure what to do, so I just wave at the being I once thought to be fiction. Seeming to get over her initial surprise she composes herself and hides her obvious fear, causing me and Ashleigh to raise one of our eyebrows. Clearing her throat and taking a breath she begins to speak, reinforcing my current beliefs that she really is Celestia from the show.
“Greeting, my name is Princess Celestia of Equestria, what is your name? And if I may ask, what are you?”, feeling like she's trying to hard to make light of the situation and considering she most likely knows one of us knocked her big ass out. I guess nothing to do now but run damage control.
“Uh, hi. My names Erik, and the lovely lady who slapped me is Ashleigh. Are you ok? I know you're scared but if it helps I only knocked you out because I thought you were a burglar. You can just act normal and freak out or something, we ain't the type to judge.”
“Oh no, it’s quite alright, believe me, when you're as old as I am, you get used to strange first encounters. And I can understand your actions, to be honest it wasn't very wise of me to just barge in someone's house, even if they are in the middle of a magical void.”
“Heheh yeah I get y- wait did you just say magical void? Is that dangerous?”, concerned for the safety of Ash I wasn't sure how to feel about the news of our surrounding environment.
“Erik, you act like magic is real, we all know that shits just smoke and mirrors. Sorry Princess but you may want to come up with a better excuse to why you broke in our house”, just as I was about to try and explain what Celestia was talking about, the white pony levitated a few pillows and made them circle the room in random patterns. Funny, I can see the color of her magic and it looks a lot weirder in real life than in the show, almost like someone in a GMod game is messing with random objects. I was sort of expecting something like this to happen so it didn't shake me as much as it did Ash, which was currently trying to find the strings in a funny controlled flail.
“How the fuck are you doing that? Where the hell are the strings? Actually, just you being here doesn't make any sense so why the hell not throw fucking magic into the mix, yeah because that sounds totally like something the universe would come up with. I need a damn drink, Erik i’m stealing some of your Stellas.”
“Go for it, while you're at it though would you mind bringing me one? Oh and one for our guest, i’m sure we can all use a few drinks with the shit that's going on.”
“If I may ask, what is this ‘Stella’? I’m guessing it’s some form of drink but I could be wrong.”
“Oh you're not far from the truth, ‘Stella’ is an alcoholic drink, an ale from Belgium,” seeming to accept my response Celestia just nods her head and waits patiently. Meanwhile it just dawns on me how the hell we can understand each other, must be some kind of magic at work, probably the same kind that brought us here and is producing that magic void thing Celestia was just talking about. The thought of that brings up many questions, ones that will have to wait for a little bit because Ash is here with the beers. She hands Celestia and I a bottle, we say our thanks and I take a nice large gulp, while the white pony takes a few sips and nods her head at the flavor. Taking that time to be the best chance to ask questions I decide which ones I should ask.
“So Celestia, mind if I ask how you even found your way to our home? And where we are as well?” The Solar Princess then takes her time explaining the events that lead up to her coming to our home, and about how the “Magic Void” is affecting some worker ponies building a new railroad to the west nearby. This news brings up a few concerns about the timeline and some new questions about not just where, but when we are.
“And as to where you are, you happen to find yourselves near the Whitetail Woods. Not to far from the small town of Ponyville. Now if you don't mind i’d like to know how it is the two of you ended up here along with your home? And if either of you know about anything to do with the phenomenon going on around it,” nodding my head in understanding I was about to respond but Ashleigh beat me to it.
“Well, we're not sure how it is we got here, I was helping Erik with a few things and then an earthquake hits and after that he and I try to get out of the apartment before it collapses only to find ourselves in the middle of nowhere. And as for the magic thing that's going on, you probably know more about it than we do.”
“Hmm, interesting. If you don't mind i’d like to perform some tests on the surrounding area. With some luck it may show us how we can send the both of you back,” I look at Ash to see if she's alright with it and she just shrugs, I give Celestia a nod, and with that her horn lights up and I can see tendrils of magic spread across the room and seep outside. After a few minutes I finish my beer just as the white pony seems to finish and the magic flows back into her horn. With a sigh, Celestia seems to enter a trance of thought with her eyes staring into nothingness but moving at random. I give her a moment before deciding to see if she found anything.
“So, did you happen to find anything useful?” this happens to break her from the trance and she closes her eyes and takes a deep breath before speaking.
“Well the results were and weren't what I was expecting. In a way you're both now permanently here, but the void that surrounds your home still has traces of wherever you came from. And with that I believe your souls are both imprinting on this land but I may be able to send you back for a short amount of time. I’m sorry, but matters at this scale are out of my control,” she finishes with her head drooped in disappointment. I look at Ashleigh who happens to have the same grim face as I do. I grab her hand and this gets her to look at me, I just now notice the tears welling up in her face. Agh, my heart, with that I give her a big hug and she just allows herself to be cradled into my arms while sniffling. I as well am having a hard time not breaking out into tears at the thought of family I have to leave behind. So, our souls are imprinted onto the land, but in some way were still connected to our home world. I’m not to sure how this all comes together… but at least I still have Ash.
“So, if you were to send us back would we be able to bring anything? Like people or objects?”, I ask due to my concerns of family.
“Unfortunately whatever brought you here is still a mystery to me, so living beings will not be able to come across, though inanimate objects are a different story. If you go to the place where you originally were, there should be some sort of energy similar to the one here, that should allow me to transport whatever materials you think you need. Also if you don't mind me asking, did any of you have family?”
“Yes, we both had family, although mine is going through a very tough time and i’m just worried how their going to keep going without a helping hand. Another question, how long do we have back home before we need to come back?”, I begin making a mental list of things I need to get before coming back here, just to make our lives easier in this new land.
“Well, if you're that concerned I believe I can be of help, as a show of good faith, I will gift each of you with a few thousand bits to give to your family, assuming your people use the same currency. As for your second question i’m not sure how long but my guess would be a few hours, 5 at the most.” Celestia finishes whilst summoning two large bags full of gold coins and a couple of fist sized jewels that look like rubies. I’m not sure if I can take such charity, because what she's giving us would be well over half a million back home. But Ash seems to not mind and grabs her portion with wide eyes.
“Are you sure Celestia? This seems like an awful to give to a couple of strangers”
“Nonsense, this is from my private collection, and it’s hardly enough to put a dent into it. Please take this as a token of our newly formed friendship, in hopes that one day we can look back onto this and laugh as friends”, well if she insists, I ain't one to look a gift horse in the mouth… fuck you that was funny. Ash decides to voice a few concerns that also lurked in the back of my mind.
“Are you doing this so that we could be indebted to you or something? No one is ever this kind for no reason, what's your angle Celestia?” the Princess seems slightly surprised at this reaction. But before she can respond I speak up in order to clarify what Ash meant.
“Sorry Cel, can I call you Cel? Anyways what Ash means is, where we come from not everything is hunky dory and everyone is always looking out for their own benefit. Now i’m not saying everyone is greedy but that's typically a thing among anyone who shows such generosity. I know we're not exactly back home but i’m sure you're looking to benefit from this in some way.” At this piece of logic Celestia’s mask seems to falter slightly and I can tell she’s hiding something. Ash seems to notice as well and makes a move that kind of surprised me.
“Hahahahah, you should have seen your face! Oh god that was priceless. Sorry Cel but I couldn't help but pull a prank. I’m sure someone of your status doesn't need anything from two lonely humans, but we'll take your generosity anyways because what are friends for?” This seems to break the Princess from her previous surprise.
“Oh heheh, yes good one! For a second there I thought you were serious”, the royal pony seems to relax at the surprisingly smooth move Ash just pulled. I look at her and we make eye contact, during the brief stare we exchange looks that say ‘we’ll talk about this later’. We both take our share of the money and place them in separate areas to distinguish later. At this moment I get a couple of questions in my mind.
“Okay, so now that that’s settled, I have a few concerns. One: what are the latest events in this world, and do you recognize the name Twilight Sparkle? And two: when can you send us back?”, these questions make Celestia look up in thought, tapping her muzzle and humming she takes a few seconds to form a response.
“Well aside from a fire in the Hollow Shades forest, the most recent major event that I can think of is I have just opened up a Cadet Guard Academy, and no I can’t say I have heard the name before. As for your second question I can easily send you back right now, with such a strong signature around us I can pinpoint where to send you. Now I am curious as to what brought on your first question.”
“Oh it was just a human thing. Anyways if you can send us back right now then can you give us a few moments to prepare for the journey there and back?”
“Certainly, please take your time, I’ll be here finishing this lovely, what is it you called it? Ah yes, this Stella”, at this I nod my head and signal Ash to follow me to my man cave. Once we enter I lock the door and turn on the computer, I load ITunes and play some music loud enough to muffle our voices. Psychosocial from Slipknot should do.
“Okay, you know that I know that I wasn't serious about me pulling that prank. You out of all people should know just how greedy some people can get. Now I know she’s not a person, but she sure as hell acts like one, and if that’s anything to go by then I think it’s safe to say that greed is a universal trait. We’re gonna have to trust her for now, but please Erik I know she’s from that cartoon that came out six years back, it’s hard not to see the resemblance from her and your toys, but you’re gonna have to take the lead in these interactions.”
“Not that I have a problem with it but, since when have you been so analytical?”
“Well when your dad was a Marine and your mom’s an accountant, you learn to pick up on some of their traits. Those being catching people's bullshit and having an eye for detail.”
“Well, you won't hear any complaints from me. I sure as hell could use the help with situations like these, and it helps that you're pretty,” at this she rolls her eyes playfully and gives me a smirk. I stare into those beautiful hazel eyes, and I don't realize she took my hand, I don't know how it happened, but I was to entranced to care. Where we getting closer? I think so, just a few more inches, and I start closing my eyes, the world around me fades as all I can sense was her.
“Ooh I like this music, what ban…” Ash and I look at Celestia in utter embarrassment.
…
…
…
“Uhh, this is exactly what it looks like”
*smack*
“Ouch Ashleigh! What?”
“Stop being a dork”
“Fine, sorry about that Cel, me and Ash got a little carried away.”
“Oh no it’s no issue really,”she says with a blush while avoiding eye contact. “I’m sorry about intruding on your personal moment, had I known I would have given you time to finish”
“Heh, yeah it’s ok- wait, finish what?”
“Well it was obvious you two were about to mate, although it’s uncommon for individuals to do so while they have guests, it is not unheard of” Ash and I blush even harder and my female companion decides to put a stop to such thoughts.
“Oh no, you got the wrong idea lady, I may like Erik but he's got a looong way to go if he ever wants to reach home base. I ain't that kind of girl.”
“Oh? Then am I wrong to think that if two individuals share a mutual interest they do not mate? Is there some sort of ritual humans go through before they do so?” I take that opportunity to explain human relationships.
“Well you see Celestia, while that is true, with humans, we kind of just date for a while before we go into doin the horizontal tango. I know some people just jump the gun into fucking but it’s common for people to just take their time and bond with one another before doing the dirty.”
“Ah, I see, humans seem like spiritual creatures then, similar to the Minotaur. Well I just came in here to let you both know that I have prepared the spell to send you both back, and that you will have approximately 5 hours before being sent back, any belongings you with to bring will need to be in your original location.”
“Okay, sweet, let me just lock a few things up and we can get started, if you don't mind could you give us a few?”
“Not at all, please let me know when you are both ready”, with that she exits the room and luckily I happened to be standing in front of the vinyls so there's that. I take my shot gun off and throw it and my pack into the safe, Ash unstraps her holster and takes her backpack off, which I also put in the steel container. Okay now just to make a list of things were going to need.
“Hey Ash, I was going to make a list of things I need to do and get before we get TP’d back here. Mind helping me think of some supplies?” Ash just nods her head and we begin making a list of things that would be helpful in the long run, and even things that we may not need, but there is a chance those things could come into use. Around 15 minutes later we have our list of things we need to do and obtain before coming back.
“Okay, more food/cooking supplies, more drinks and beer, cloths, hygiene supplies, shoes, light bulbs and electronics, entertainment items, sewing supplies, cleaning supplies, another set of household appliances, new tools, my car, as many gallons of gas we can get, ammo, a couple more guns, survival and tactical gear, hmmm… Ah toiletries, and smokes.”
“Sounds all good to me, and we’ll think of more things on the spot. Well I think we're ready, how about you?”
“As far as I can tell we're good to go”, with that settled we wrap up and head out to let Celestia know we’re ready.
Whatever may come, we’ll be ready.
Come on life, were ready...
Chapter 4
“Okay Celestia, I think me and Ash are ready.”
“Very well, if you have any other questions please ask them now, or hold them until you’re back. I will go back to my palace and inform the Council of what has transpired, and due to the strange nature of your situation and surroundings I shall write up a royal document forbidding any unauthorized individuals from entering the ‘Magic Exclusion Zone’, or M.E.Z. as I have come to calling it. Now once you're prepared to go, please stand still and in front of me along with anything you wish to bring.” Nodding my head in agreement and thanks I go grab my keys and wallet while Ash takes her phone out and makes a few reminders about what i’m guessing are things she wants to do before coming back. A few minutes later, Ash and I stand in front of the white pony and hold hands.
“Okay you two, I will begin with the spell and you may feel some nausea once you arrive. I will see you both when my schedule allows it and I am glad our first encounter didn't go as bad as it could have gotten. Good luck,” her horn glows with a bright golden light, I look at Ash and she looks to me our eyes do all the speaking for us as we close them due to the brightness of the light coming from the Princess, all we feel is nothingness with some vertigo.
********************
*Sigh* Well, now that that’s settled, how about I take a look around this, ‘House', I feel a bit of guilt snooping while the two humans are gone but I must know of the potential danger these two are capable of. Making my way through the building I notice the room which they were in was locked, not wanting it to be obvious that I was snooping I use an echo location type spell, letting me vaguely see the contents of the room. Well that was slightly useful, the items inside elude me of their purpose but they seem like ordinary furniture along with a strange metallic safe. At least I have a little more information than just a glance inside could provide. Opening the next door reveals a large bed along with some night stands and an open walk in closet full of clothes. Well that solves that, next leads me to a restroom with a strange looking toilet and a tall but small shower, though thinking of it’s intended users it does not come as a surprise.
“Well, at least I won't be returning empty handed, information is just as powerful as any material objects I could have snatched.”
Using the same technique to exit the MEZ as entering, it did not take as long as the first time luckily. I cannot help but think and make plans and contingencies pertaining to the duo I just helped out.
Hmm, maybe…
********************
Arriving at our intended destination kind of felt like being funneled out of toothpaste, how do I know that, I don't i’m just guessing fucker. Anyways, Ash and I look to one another and give a parting hug not needing to be told twice about where to go and when to be back we depart. I’m guessing she's going to say farewell to her family and go attend to the supplies, while I go tend to my family and friends and go see a certain man about acquiring some less than legal goods. Not having time to see the full extent of the structural damage but noticing that it does not look pretty I take my truck, which had some dents on the hood, and head to go see my mom.
About ten minutes pass by in a rushed blur of adrenalin and anxiety, I get to my mom's place. Noticing it did not get hit as bad as everything else, I sigh in relief.
“Ma! Donde estas? Necesito a hablar contigo ” (Mom! Where are you! I need to talk to you!)
“My san, where jhave you been mijo , I’ve been estressada with this earthquake.”
“Ma, I need to talk to you about something really important, and I don't have much time to explain.” Getting a little shaky with my nerves I prepare myself to upset my mother.
“Okay mijo but you need to call tu papa and make sure he's okay, santo ariba knows he wouldn't care if the jwhole jhouse fell on him.”
“Ok, I will mama but please, understand that I don't have any control in what's happening right now. I’m going away ma , I don't know for how long but probably forever. I literally can't stay ma, i’m sorry but, I don't have any say in this.”
Failing to just hold strong due to my mom being there for everything in my life, I never grew up slowly, I was forced to skip my childhood due to poverty, but my mom always held strong and fed my sister and I even if it meant going hungry herself. I never really knew how I would cope with my moms eventual departure from this world, but I always figured I’d have time to accept it, this though, this was not how I wanted to say goodbye to her.
“Mijo , I understand, sometimes un hombre needs to do what he needs to do. I wish I jhad more time to say goodbye but always remember tu mama siempre te va amar , but don't leave yet, I made some of your favorito food, tinga . At least take it with you.” My mother wipes the tears at the edge of my eyes, and shows me a pot full of shredded chicken and sauce.
“I will mom, thank you for understanding, and I have a gift for you, so you won't have to work a day in your life again,” running back to my truck I grab the pouch of precious metals and stones and hand it to her, she gasps and grabs the pouch while muttering spanish curses followed with a prayer to god.
“Mijo , not that I don't appreciate this but does this jhave to do with you jhaving to leave?”
“Heh, well it kind of does but it’s not what you think. Just know that i’m always gonna miss you and Stephanie” I hug her and she returns it with tears streaming down both our faces. “Te amo mama .”
“Yo tambien mijo, santa maria protect mi hijo, y su novia ”, I blush but don't question how she figured it out, heh leave it to a mother's instinct. I leave with a container and damp jacket, it doesn't feel right leaving so soon, I wish I could have stayed longer but I know five hours will be up faster than I expect. Starting my truck and heading toward the surplus store I have in mind I call my step-dad. The phone rings three times before being answered.
“Hello? Erik, you ok?”
“Yeah, I’m fine but mom told me to call you to see how you were holding up.”
“Oh, I’m fine. It’ll take more than a little earthquake to take me down”
“Hmm, yeah figured. Well, I’m also calling you to tell you i’m leaving for good. You're probably not gonna hear from me again, but stay away from mom or i'll find a way to come back and kick your ass” the other line stays silent for a while until a sigh comes through.
“Sure thing Erik, I won't ask what's going on, but just be careful. You know i’m still sorry, but wherever you go just take care of that girl of yours or i'll find you and kick your ass.” My step dad being one I could confide in knew about my interest in Ashleigh, but this was before his fuck up.
“Heh, sure. Just remember what you've done… and goodbye, dad.” I hang up the phone just as I get to the camo painted building, neon lights still lit with ‘Guns, Ammo, Bait, Etc.’ on the front. Barred windows and door looking like a 450 is required to pry them open. I turn my truck off and lock it as I make my way through the door. The sound of a bell signals the arrival of a customer, the inside is pretty much what you would expect with fishing gear and supplies to the left of the store and anything to do with firearms and military toward the right, behind the counter is a grizzled old man with eyes of one who has seen too many things for one lifetime, Top is what anyone who is a regular calls him, that or Sarge.
“Well if it isn't Mr. Two pea shooter! What can I help you with this fine day! Finally come to buy some REAL guns?” I simply answer ‘yes’ while looking him in the eye. He notices the look in my eye and something within him sparks. “Well, well, I know that look. I won't ask why but you're going somewhere far, and dangerous ain't ya. Lucky for you, I got some good stuff, if you're willin to pay.” I just stare at him, and he seems to accept it, nodding he leads me to the back. Going down some stairs to a basement he turns to a metal counter, pushing it to the side it reveals a sturdy looking steel door. Pushing his thumb and putting in a code on a side panel it opens with a loud clank. Pushing it open my eyes widen to the shelves lined with military grade hardware, everything from a 93R to a M32 grenade launcher, and rows or ammo for everything in between.
“I won't ask what you’re lookin for but know i'm watching you, just come back to the door once you're ready,” with that I go to some shelves lined with assault rifles and DMRs I pick out an LVAO-C and 3 ammo containers of 5.56, place them on the side, a modern looking SVD catches my eye, always wanting one I grab it along with 4 containers of 7.62. Missing my Glock I look for a replacement, an H&K P30 makes my eyes go wide, after seeing it in John Wick I wanted one bad. Grabbing five boxes of 124gr +p (9mm) I finalize my selection, making my way to the doorway with Top waiting I spot something I absolutely needed, a belt of M67 frags. Unloading my picks in front of the old man he nods and inspects my selection.
“I like your tastes, alright this will cost you around 25Gs but since i'm being nice, i'll take it down to 10Gs, and i’ll even throw in some body armour and survival kits. From the look in your eyes, your going somewhere bad and need to protect someone. I know the feelin, just know no matter what happens don't lose yourself kid. It’s a fine line we men of action walk, never forget what you're fighting for.”
“Thanks Sarge, i’ll never forget your kindness.” I shake his hand and give him my credit card, I trust him to charge me on whatever, not like it’ll matter anyways. It takes me about 2 hours to load all of this and the gear he gave me, as well as cover it with a tarp, once i'm all situated I go and settle any old grievances and debts. Saying goodbye to my best friends was hard though, if it wasn't my mom, they were always there for me, without them my life would not have been as rich up to this point, i’m gunna miss my buddies.
I check the time and notice it’s been nearly four hours, shit time flies when you're busy alright. With the night still somewhat young I head over to a 24Hr gas station. The way over wasn't to important, just the city night life going on like nothing ever happened. Finally spotting my destination I turn into the lot and park next to a pump, turning the truck off and locking it I make my way inside the surprisingly roomy mart and spot a stack of empty five gallon jerry cans. I could probably fit eight of them in the back seats of my truck if I stack them efficiently. Making my mind up I ask the clerk to help me out in bringing them outside, not before I pay for them though.
With my forty gallons of gas all filled up, I top off my truck and drive off the lot, waving at the clerk I check the time, and instantly gun it to my destination. Breaking a few traffic laws, I get to the ruined apartments in record time with a less than happy looking Ashleigh waiting for me, I park and exit my truck.
“Heheh, sorry about that, I kind of got side tracked.”
“Oh i’m not mad that you're here barely on time, i’m mad that you didn't even think to call your sister. I called her and asked if she's heard from you, but I think you know what she told me,” oh shit. Damnit! I can't believe I actually forgot to call my own sister!
“Well, is she okay at least?”
“Yeah she was fine, just a little mad you didn't call her. Other than that, I gathered all the supplies and even managed to keep the bits Celestia gave me,” that did not come as a surprise to me considering her family lives comfortably enough. Though now that i'm taking in her appearance it looks like she cried for some time. Well i'm with her on that one, this was far more rushed and painful than I would have liked it to be, I just wish there was more time, maybe if I never moved out after that happened with my mom… maybe I would have never dragged Ash into this damned mess. Unfortunately for me there is no going back now, i'm stuck with this situation, the least I can do is try and make the most of it. Although truth be told i'm really just holding shit in for the sake of my sanity.
“-rick, Erriiikk!” a pale hand waves in front of my face breaking me from my thoughts.
“Oh shit! My bad, I was just thinking. Sorry, what were you trying to tell me?”
“I was just asking you if you were ready? I'm feeling something weird right now, I think we're about to get pulled back.” true enough I start feeling something like static in the air, making a quick rundown in my mind in case I forgot anything I realize I failed to mention buying milk, it's always the damn milk. Although before I can say anything my vision goes white and then I get a familiar sense of vertigo.
********************
A warm breeze rolls through the small hills upsetting the tall strands of emerald in a wave like motion eventually getting to the trees causing a flock of finch like birds to fly off of their perches, tweeting tune to the others the flock fly by our modest home, heh reminds me of the our first day here, even though that was about three months ago. I step out onto the porch Ash and I constructed to make our home a little more… homey, considering the door was about half a foot off the ground.
“Hey babe i'm makin a run to the stream, need anything while i'm out?”
“Nah, just make sure you get some fish for tonight, and be careful, Cel warned us about puntown expanding, I don't think those ponies are ready to find out about us.”
“I'll be careful, and I remember it being called Ponyville? Not puntown.”
“Yeah that bullshit, just come back soon!”
Heh, yeah that's Ash for you, not that I blame her though. We've gotten closer through these few months, were still a little awkward when it comes to anything physical. Cels done us some good too, some supplies for home upkeep and construction, though Ash still doesn't trust her, I can see why but i'm willing to give her the benefit of the doubt. Doesn't mean id trust her with my life, but if she keeps it up I may just get there. Things are looking up for us, I just hope life doesn't take our comfort as a sign of complacency and weakness, we've been training in marksmanship and hand to hand every now and then, though the spars were more her idea. She can kick my ass in a fair fight, though not surprising when her father was a brown belt in the Marines hell he probably taught her how to kill a man with her bare hands, but that just means i'm learning from someone capable.
Yeah, life looks good for now. I just hope to whatever god is watching that when life throws something at us, we're ready.
Author's Note
Okay so, I don't have any good excuse other than iv'e been busy. I have more time on my hands now but this took so long to come out because I honestly was not feeling creative. And I know that if I were to have forced myself to write the final product would not have been worth it at all essentially meaning I let your the reader and myself down. But i'm kind of getting back into the groove, just don't expect super frequent updates. I hope you all enjoy, and if so leave a like if you feel like it, if anything comment and call me out on my bullshit literature.
